Cat call hopes to stir loving hearts

ABOVE: SPCA volunteer Ull Storsjo-Dunn enjoys some quality time with Bugsy, one of the cats available for adoption at the Wairarapa SPCA. PHOTOS/LYNDA FERINGA

Wairarapa SPCA says it is inundated with cats who need a loving new home.

The centre has extended its discount on adult cats for a further two weeks in an attempt to encourage prospective owners to adopt an older pet.

There are more than 13 cats and 12 kittens waiting for new homes, with more still in quarantine.

An SPCA volunteer said some of the influx was due to people having the time to notice stray cats in their area.

"People are home all day for the holidays and they've realised the cat that they've seen walking around has moved in and has had kittens in the garage - we've had a lot of that."

Other reasons for the increase were the number of cats running away after being temporarily rehomed during the summer holidays, and owners going into hospital, she said.

Chairman Rob Sewell said although about 39 cats and kittens were transferred to the Wellington SPCA a few weeks ago, there were still too many in the Masterton centre.

"When we are getting to 10 or 12 we are actually getting quite full - 12 cats in one room is getting quite busy."

As well as causing the animals to become frustrated, having more cats in one room could also increase the risk of disease.

It broke his heart to see the animals penned up, Mr Sewell said. "It's all about getting them a loving home."

ADOPTION OFFER:
- The discounted rate of $50 applies to cats aged 18 months and upwards.
- All the cats are flea and worm treated, de-sexed and microchipped.
- The offer runs until February 1.
- The Wairarapa SPCA is located at 299 Ngaumutawa Rd, Masterton.
Opening hours are 9am - 12am and 3pm - 4pm, seven days a week.